Community Outreach: Prince Rupert

Prince Rupert Port Contribution in Metlakatla Promotes Health and Recreation

The Port of Prince Rupert recently announced a contribution that will make a difference to the quality of life for residents of the nearby coastal community of Metlakatla (BC).

A C$125,000 contribution from the port’s Community Investment Fund to Metlakatla’s Healthy Lifestyles Initiative enabled the construction of a multi-use sports field and skateboard park adjacent to an existing recreation center. The sports field caters to users from both Metlakatla and Prince Rupert. It enables the community to participate in sports leagues and tournaments with teams from across Northwest British Columbia.

"These facilities demonstrate Metlakatla’s commitment to investing in an improved quality of life for people living in the community," said Harold Leighton, Chief Councillor of Metlakatla First Nation. "The Port of Prince Rupert’s contribution to this project is an example of how port operations directly benefit local communities, and demonstrates how we are working together towards a shared vision of success."

Constructing a recreation field in this location is challenging given the unique topography and soil conditions of the North Coast. An abundance of rock and muskeg influenced costs, bringing the total price tag of the new field to over C$500,000. However, all facets of the Healthy Lifestyles Initiative were completed within budget and residents of the region now have even greater access to top-notch recreation facilities.

"We’ve always found ourselves warmly welcomed in Metlakatla, and we encourage residents of Prince Rupert, Port Edward and other North Coast communities to experience what this vibrant village has to offer," said Port Authority President Don Krusel. "We’re humbled to see the collective impact of our thriving trade gateway expressed through opportunities to modernize and beautify neighboring communities."

The new Metlakatla Sports Field and Skateboard Park benefited from a contribution from the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s Community Investment Fund.
Photo/Prince Rupert Port Authority